Mesquite Dunes, Death Valley

Landscape photographers have to wake up a few hours before dawn and make their way to the desired location before the light - usually in total darkness (unless you are somewhere near the poles in summer :~) ). Last time a group of us photographers were out in death valley, we hit these dunes in pure darkness. We had no sense of direction as there was no moon out and could not see any features, mostly because in the rush of things, the GPS was forgotten. So to get to the point (pun intended), scope out the location the day before and when you get to the area or exact location that you would like to photograph, mark it on your GPS. On the way back, ensure your tracks are recorded. The following morning should then be a simple task for your GPS unit to track back. Just remember the flashlight.